Mind reading is one of the most common cognitive distortions.
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This morning, I had a conversation with ChatGPT about some mind reading I’ve been doing.
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Do you see mind reading in my other images for today?
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Here’s what I find when I search for “mind reading” on YouTube:
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Is anyone mind reading me right now?
I once read that what others think of me is no business of mine. Yes, that seems counterintuitive to the ego but it actually removes a great amount of stress. And it has helped me in my ability to speak in front of groups. Whereas before I adopted this approach, I believed I could read people’s minds. “What a dork (geek/nerd)?” “OMG, what the heck is he talking about?” Far more damaging to the ego.
So I allow myself not to care what goes on in the minds of others. If they want me to know, they will tell me.
I love this, Stan. Thank you.
Hmmm, well, yestereve I was devoting quite a bit of time thinking and writing about the First Felon’s construction projects, and lately I’ve been thinking about the Civil War (reading bio of US Grant) and the way “we” never really won that war. So I suppose that’s worth listening in to for a hot minute. But this morning? Can I manage to replace the bandaid on the cut on my foot (it’s doing well) if my son doesn’t come home for lunch. Can I manage to put some critter food out without him seeing me (he told me not to because racoons, but what am I going to do with what I have left?) My neck itches.
See? That’s why I don’t even want to go back in time and listen in to Tolkien. Do I want to know that he wishes he had better boots? That he fantasizes about putting that pile of papers he is to grade into the fireplace? (well, that one might be fun) That Edith snores? I don’t think so.
Thanks for sharing your mind, Barbara.
Like so many others I wouldn’t want the power to read anyone else’s mind. Besides I feel my own mind is so unfocused and cluttered I think other people’s minds might be similar. But I do wish our dogs could read my mind so they know how loved they are. And also that it would be nice to sleep past 5AM.
I wish you could read my mind, Chris, so you would know how much I appreciate you.
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